Bittersweet

Since we are surrounded by such a huge crowd of witnesses to the life of faith, let us strip off every weight that slows us down, especially the sin that so easily trips us up. And let us run with endurance the race God has set before us.

As I peered into the mailbox, my eyes sought the object wedged just a little too tightly to slide out without a serious tug—a children’s book.

As I wriggled it free, I tried to hold my tears at bay. It was the last book my youngest child would receive from the United Way’s Imagination Library program as his fifth birthday—and all the affiliated milestones we were about to pass—loomed.

Losing the fight, I felt the tears stream as I walked up the driveway, quietly mourning the morphing of my chubby toddler into a lanky little boy, while simultaneously celebrating this new phase, grateful God chose me to be a part of his growing up journey.

Friends, our short time on this planet involves a race of faithful, spiritual endurance. Races require forward movement, even if it’s only at turtle speed, and forward movement inevitably means there will be lasts as we prepare to experience new firsts. Leaving lasts and facing firsts is often bittersweet. Or, let’s be honest, sometimes there is no sweet to balance the bitter when we didn’t ask for and didn’t want the impending change.

As we approach a new milestone—wanted or unwanted—in our children’s lives, in the trajectory of our careers, in our marriages and friendships, ultimately, the direction of our gaze will set the direction of our feet. If we get too focused on looking backward, mourning our lasts, we can’t properly move toward the future and the things God has waiting for us.

Today’s verse reminds us that we don’t run this race alone. I am so grateful for this assurance, this promise. Sisters and brothers of the faith (those listed in Hebrews and those in our present faith communities) stand along with us, cheering us forward. And our beloved Savior is with us every step of the way.

Julie

Today’s Act of Gratitude

What is Jesus asking you to release so you can move forward? Ask someone to pray for and with you as you let go and cast your gaze ahead.